RESTRICTED  WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION  WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
1 October 2007  
 (07-3989) 
Trade Policy Review Body Original:  English 
  
 
   
 
TRADE POLICY REVIEW 
 
Report by 
 
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA 
 
   
Pursuant to the Agreement Establishi ng the Trade Policy Review Mechanism 
(Annex 3 of the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the World Trade 
Organization), the policy statement by Antigua and Barbuda is attached. 
 
 
Note: This report is subject to restricted circ ulation and press embargo until the end of the first 
 session of the meeting of the Trade Policy Review Body on Antigua and Barbuda. Antigua and Barbuda WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
 Page 3 
 
 
CONTENTS 
  Page 
1. ECONOMIC AND TRADE POLICY ENVIRONMENT 5 
  Macro Economic Performance and Outlook 5 
   Economic Performance 5    Public Sector Transformation 7 
   Economic Outlook 7 
  Trade and Investment Policy 8    Investment 8 
   T r a d e  P o l i c y  9  
2. SECTORAL DEVELOPMENT 13 
  Services  13 
   Tourism 13    International Financial Services 14 
   Professional Services 15 
   Telecommunications 17   F i s h e r i e s  18 
  Manufacturing 18 
3. INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK 19 4. TRADING ARRANGEMENTS 19 
  Regional Integration 19 
   OECS Economic Union 19    C S M E  1 9  
  Multilateral 20 
  WTO - Doha Round 20   Preferential trading arrangements 21 
   CARICOM Bilateral Trade Arrangements 21 
   CARIBCAN 21    Cotonou/EPA 21 
  CBI  22 
5. TRADE DEVELOPMENT NEEDS ASSESSMENT 22 
  Vulnerabilities 22 
  Challenges 23    Statistics 23 
  Trade Assistance Required 24  Antigua and Barbuda WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
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 1. ECONOMIC AND TRADE POLICY ENVIRONMENT 
Macro Economic Performance and Outlook 
1. Antigua and Barbuda is a two-island state in the heart of the Caribbean.  The islands together 
measure approximately 170 square miles with a population of 83,000.1  The country exhibits all the 
characteristics of a small, island economy:  hi gh level of imports, narrow production base and 
vulnerability to natural disasters. 
2. In addition to membership in the WTO, Antigua  and Barbuda is a member of the Caribbean 
Community (CARICOM) whose members are presentl y in the process of deepening this regional 
integration movement into a single market.  The proposed CARICOM Single Market and Economy 
(CSME) seeks to create one seamless economic space with no barriers to the establishment of 
business, the movement of capital or labour.  Antigua  and Barbuda is also a member of the subgroup 
of smaller islands, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) with one currency and a 
common Monetary Policy administered by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank.  The OECS is presently considering further integration into a full Economic Union. 
Economic Performance
 
Structure and Output 
3. Services, including construction, dominate th e economy of Antigua and Barbuda contributing 
more than 90 per cent to the country’s GDP of EC$1.7 billion at constant prices in 2006.2  In the 
National Accounts, ‘Hotels and Restaurants’ serv es as a proxy for Tourism and according to ECCB 
figures3, apart from Government Services, this sector is , on average, the largest contributor to GDP.  
Over the past few years, the construction sector has grown at record levels due to the implementation 
of a number of private and public sector projects.  In particular, growth in the economy was driven by the construction sector as it grew by 19.5 pe r cent in 2005 and by 35 per cent in 2006. 
Balance of Payments 4. Over the period 2003 to 2006, Antigua and Barbuda maintained an overall surplus on the 
external accounts.  While there tends to be current  account deficits on the Balance of Payments, these 
deficits are fully financed by surpluses on the cap ital and financial account.  For 2006, the current 
account deficit is estimated to increase twofold over  2005 reflecting a significant increase in imports 
of goods.  The deterioration in the current account in  2006 is consistent with the significant level of 
economic activity, particularly in the construc tion sector, as Antigua and Barbuda prepares for CWC 
2007. 
Fiscal Policy 
5. Between 1998 and 2003, the Government’s fiscal  operations experienced high and sustained 
current account and overall de ficits that averaged about 6 per cent and 7 per cent of GDP respectively.  
In addition, there was a significant increase in the debt figures which resulted in a debt to GDP ration 
of over 130 per cent by the end of 2003.  To correct these macroeconomic difficulties, the 
                                                     
 
1 Eastern Caribbean Central Bank National Accounts Statistics www.eccb-centralbank.org. 
2 Eastern Caribbean Central Bank National Accounts Statistics www.eccb-centralbank.org. 
3 Eastern Caribbean Central Bank National Accounts Statistics www.eccb-centralbank.org . WT/TPR/G/190/ATG Trade Policy Review 
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 Government, in 2004, embarked on a comprehens ive reform programme which was intended to, 
inter alia, foster improved fiscal ma nagement and debt sustainability. 
6. Through a fiscal reform initiative that focuses bot h on the revenue and expenditure sides, the 
Government has managed to improve tax administra tion and revenue collection.   This was facilitated 
by the implementation of new tax measures, conso lidation of existing tax measures, the removal of 
certain indirect taxes and the rationalization of ta x collection agencies.  Specifically, the Personal 
Income Tax was reintroduced in April of 2005, the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax on goods and 
services was implemented early in January 2007, and a modernized property tax system was established in January 2007.  Further, the Government has sought to curtail the granting of 
discretionary tax concessions by establishing limits  on the level of concessions granted and by 
revamping the application process.  
7. Additionally, the Government enacted new legislation, the Finance Administration Act, in 
2006 to modernise and enhance financial manage ment procedures.  Specifically, the Finance 
Administration Act provides for the effective control and management of Public Finances and establishes rules and procedures for, inter alia, th e authorisation of expenditures;  government 
borrowing;  management and control of the publ ic debt.  The legislation also established new 
budgetary procedures and expenditure  guidelines which are already in effect.  With the assistance of 
the Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC), the Government has implemented a strengthened Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) which seeks to prioritise, coordinate and 
monitor capital expenditure.  Also, the Governme nt has introduced a cash management system to 
ensure greater controls on spending by ministries and has also commenced the implementation of an 
e-financials system (FreeBalance) which is inte nded to ensure greater expenditure management. 
8. Along with its efforts to correct the fiscal imba lances, this Government has paid particular 
attention to reducing the public debt stock.  Specifi c attention has been paid to the development of a 
debt strategy which has the overall objectives of achieving debt sustainability.  To date, the 
Government received debt relief of  $550 million through bilateral negotia tions with external creditors.  
Further, the Government, with assistance from th e Canadian International development Agency 
(CIDA), engaged the services of an international fi rm to develop and implement a debt management 
programme that will facilitate furthe r reductions in the debt stock. 
9. These various initiatives have already begun to impact the overall fiscal performance in 
Antigua and Barbuda.  In particul ar, revenue performance has improved while the rate of growth in 
the level of expenditure has slowed.  The current  account deficit for 2006 was 3.6 per cent of GDP 
compared to the pre-reform average of about 6 perc ent of GDP.  Further, the debt to GDP ratio has 
fallen to about 109 per cent. 
Inflation 10. Antigua and Barbuda has maintained a low and stable rate of inflation between 2001 and 
2006.  According to Eastern Caribbean Central Bank figures
4, during this period, the Consumer Price 
Index has averaged 2 per cent. 
                                                      
4 Eastern Caribbean Central Bank National Acco unts Statistics www.eccb-centralbank.org . Antigua and Barbuda WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
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 Unemployment 
11. Census figures for 2001 indicated an unemploym ent rate of approximately 8.5 per cent. 
However, in its draft report, the Antigua and Ba rbuda Poverty Assessment conducted late 2005/early 
20065 has recorded a 4 per cent unemployment rate. 
Public Sector Transformation  
12. In addition to the fiscal reform and debt management initiatives, the Government has 
embarked on a Public Sector Transformation Programme (PSTP).  The focus of this programme is to streamline the public sector and to ensure the more  efficient provision of government services.  A 
major component of the PSTP is the Voluntar y Separation Early Retirement Package (VSEP) 
initiative, whereby public servants were given the opportunity to leave the public service or opt for 
early retirement.  The payment of separation/re tirement packages commenced in 2006 and should be 
completed in 2007.  At the end of this process it is expected that annually, savings of about 
$20 million will be realized on th e Government’s wage bill. 
Economic Outlook
 
Real Sector 
13. Economic activity is projected to  expand in 2007, albeit at a reduced rate compared with the 
12.2 per cent recorded in 2006.  Increased value a dded in the tourism indus try and other related 
service sectors is expected to prov ide the impetus for growth in 20 07.  These increases will be partly 
offset by a decline in construction activity attributab le to the completion of certain public and private 
sector projects. 
14. In 2008 the economy is projected to contract ma rginally as a result of a further waning of 
activity on the construction sector as well as a de cline in the government se rvices sector.  For the 
period 2009-2012 the growth in output is projected to converge to its long-run growth path of 
approximately 3.5 per cent per annum.  However, th ere may be a structural change in the long-run 
growth path resulting from significant investments in  the quality and capacity of the country’s tourism 
plant in 2006 and 2007. 
Fiscal 
15. Further improvement in macroeconomic pe rformance is expected as the government 
continues its fiscal reform activities.  In partic ular, the current account deficit of the central 
government is projected to decline to 2.6 per cent of GDP in 2007 from 3.6 per cent of GDP in 2006, 
as the growth in current revenue is likely to outst rip the expansion in current expenditure.  For the 
projection period 2008-2012 current revenue is expected to averag e 24.5 per cent of GDP which is 
1.7 percentage points higher than the average leve l of current expenditure of 22.9 per cent of GDP.  
This outturn results in a current account surplu s of 0.3 per cent of GDP in 2008, which increases 
annually to 3.6 per cent of GDP by 2012.  The Overa ll deficit exhibits a similar type of trend over the 
period moving from 4.5 per cent of GDP in 2008 to 0.6 per cent of GDP in 2012. 
                                                      
5 Survey of Living Conditions and Cost of Living Survey commissioned by the Government through 
the Caribbean Development Bank . WT/TPR/G/190/ATG Trade Policy Review 
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 Trade and Investment Policy 
Investment  
16. The Government recognizes the need for forei gn and domestic, large and small enterprises to 
work together for sustained growth and developmen t - small service trade creating a more attractive 
investment environment for large businesses.  The G overnment is therefore facilitating private sector 
development by creating an enabling environment th rough the establishment of appropriate legislation 
and institutions that encourage private sector devel opment and investment.  The plan is to foster 
diversification by forming business clusters around Tourism and Financial Services. Of particular 
importance is the recent establishment of the Antig ua and Barbuda Investment Authority (ABIA).  
The relevant legislation to give effect to the ABIA was enacted in November 2006.  The Authority 
commenced operations in May 2007 and is mandated to6: 
(a) Simplify the process of investing and es tablishing a business in Antigua and Barbuda; 
(b) Level the playing field for all investors – domestic and foreign; (c) Remove the discretionary and discriminatory character from the process; (d) Provide a focused and inclusive “one -stop” mechanism for the promotion and 
 coordination of all investment proposals; 
(e) Advise on government’s investment policy; (f) Ensure greater transparency  in the investment process; 
(g) Identify investment opportunities; (h) Provide information/data on the social , political and economic environment in the
 country; 
(i) Explain incentive legislation and the benefits  available to investors in the tourism and 
 hospitality sector; (j) Liaise with government departments and agencies; (k) Provide full protection and security to investor s in accordance with international standards; 
(l) Monitor and facilitate investment to ease th e passage of investors through the regulatory 
system; 
(m) Provide data collection, policy analysis, a nd policy advocacy from the investors’ point of 
view. 
17. An investment code forms part of the Investme nt Authority legislation to provide guidance on 
the rights, privileges and responsibilities of investors.
7 
The Free Trade and Processing Zone 
18. The Free Trade and Processing Zone functions as an office mandated to attract investment in 
priority areas.  As part of the Free Trade and Processing Zone Act of 1994, there are supervisory programmes and due diligence procedures for vetting and monitoring of companies desirous of operating in the Zone.  Site plans for the Zone ar e currently being revised to provide for business 
clusters by groups, as well as the infrastructure necess ary to facilitate ICT development.  Antigua and 
Barbuda has fully embraced a shift towards ICT de velopment, and it is intended that the FTPZ be 
transformed into an area designated to foster the advancement of ICT training and investment in the country. 
                                                     
 
6 Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority Act, 2006. 
7 Schedule 4, Investment Authority Act, 2006  Antigua and Barbuda WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
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 19. Further, legislation pertaining to the Free Tr ade Zone is being reviewed to embrace CSME 
and WTO obligations. 
Trade Policy  
20. Antigua and Barbuda determines and implements trade policy within a multi-layered structure 
in which domestic, Organization of Eastern Caribb ean States, Caribbean Community and multilateral 
considerations strive for harmony. 
Tax Reform 21. Fiscal Policy instruments are the only levers available to the Government to influence 
economic activity in Antigua and Barbuda.  Tariffs ha ve been traditionally levied not as protectionist 
measures but as the main source of Government Revenue - 56.8 per cent in 2005. 
22. However, in an effort to reduce the count ry’s dependence on tariffs, as of 2005, the 
Government has instituted changes to the country’s tax structure.  Tax Reform Strategy initiatives 
include the implementation of new measures, conso lidation of existing tax measures, the removal of 
certain indirect taxes and the improvement of tax administration. 
23. Personal Income Tax was reintroduced in April of 2005.  Also, the Foreign Exchange levy 
and all foreign exchange controls were remove d along with a number of low-yielding and nuisance 
taxes.  
24. In January  2007, the Antigua and Barbuda Sa les Tax (ABST) was implemented, thereby 
replacing certain taxes including the Consumption Ta x, the Hotel Guest Tax, the Hotel Guest Levy, 
the Hotel (bed night) Tax, the Restaurant a nd Catering Services Tax and the Telecommunications 
Tax.  The ABST is levied on goods and services at th e rate of 15 per cent.  For the hotel sector, the 
rate is 10.5 per cent which is a tran sitional rate, due for review in two years.  Items in a basket of 
essential items are zero-rated. 
Government Procurement 25. Antigua and Barbuda is not a party to the WTO agreement on Government Procurement. 
However, the Government relies on competitive bidd ing processes for the procurement of goods and 
services.  Specifically, for amounts exceeding $20,0 00 the procurement process is managed by the 
Government’s Tenders Board according to the Tender’s Board Act.
8 
26. There are no local or regional set asides.  Ho wever, Human Resource Capacity, financial and 
other constraints limit the ability of the Board to manage an international bidding process.  The new 
Procurement and Contract Administration Act is presently being drafted for the “control and 
management of procurement and contract administra tion, to require competition and participation, to 
ensure integrity, fairness and transparency, to pr ovide for increased economy and to maximize the 
purchasing value of government”.  In addition,  the CARICOM Secretariat has conducted research 
work in its Member States to develop a protoc ol on Government Procurement, in relation to 
Article 239 of the Revised Treaty. 
                                                      
8 www.antigua.gov.ag.  WT/TPR/G/190/ATG Trade Policy Review 
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 Standards and Technical Regulations 
SPS 
27. The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Marine Resources and Agro Industries is the enquiry 
point responsible for SPS matters.  Part of its manda te is the protection of national flora and fauna, 
and as such approves the issuance of licenses and ph ytosanitary certificates for the importation of 
fruits, vegetables, plants, flow ers, meats, poultry and eggs. 
28. In addition, meat and fish imports must also be  inspected by the veterinary division at the port 
of entry before release to the importer.  These mechan isms are principally used to protect the health of 
the consumer and to guard against the importation and subsequent infestation of local plant and 
animal life by foreign pests and diseases. 
TBT 
29. The Antigua and Barbuda Bureau of Standards (ABB S) is the national standards body.  It is a 
statutory body established under the Standards Act (1987) Cap. 411.9  The ABBS, under the Ministry 
of Finance & Economy, has sole responsibility for th e preparation and promulgation of standards, and 
for dealing with standards-related matters such as metrology, certification, conformity assessment and 
quality.10  In 2005 Antigua and Barbuda accepted Code of Good Practice for the Preparation, 
Adoption and Application of Standards.11 
30. The ABBS is the enquiry point and national no tification authority under the TBT Agreement.  
The ABBS holds membership in Caribbean Re gional Organisation for Standards and Quality 
(CROSQ), Codex Alimentarius (WHO/FAO) Comm ission (CODEX), the Inter-American Metrology 
System (SIM), subscriber member of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 
affiliate member of the International Electro-technical Commission (IEC). 
Border Measures 
Computerisation 
31. In 2005, the Customs & Excise Division implem ented the use of ASYCUDA 2.7, a useful 
tool for collection and storage of data, which has implications for policy formation and trade 
strategies.  Currently, the Government with th e assistance of the Government of Jamaica and the 
OAS12, is developing modified software, Customs Automated Services (CASE) which should be 
activated by November, 2007 and will among other feat ures, provide for completion of warrants and 
payment of attendant charges online.  More effici ent and faster procedures should result in increased 
Government revenue as well as reduced tr ansaction costs for the business sector. 
Import Licenses and Quantitative Restrictions 
32. Antigua and Barbuda maintains an import licen sing regime governed by the External Trade 
Act, under the revised laws of Antigua and Barbuda, 1992.13  The law requires that a license be 
                                                      
9 www.antigua.gov.ag. 
10 http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e /tbt_e/tbt_enquiry_points_e.htm. 
11 WTO document G/TBT/CS/2/Rev.13, 2 March 2007. 
12 www.oas.org. 
13 www.antigua.gov.ag. Antigua and Barbuda WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
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 obtained prior to the importation/arrival of certain items into the country.  License forms must be 
completed in triplicate with a cost of EC$0.10 per sheet.  These are issued by the Dept. of Industry & Commerce in the Ministry of Finance & Economy. 
33. There are three licensing schedules that govern  the import of selected items.  They are 
licenses for: 
(i) Goods which originate from countries which have not acceded to the WTO. 
(ii) Goods which are from any country not being a member State of OECS or CARICOM. (iii) Goods from any country not being a member of OECS. 
34. The Ministries which recommend licenses are the Mi nistry of Agriculture, Lands, Marine and 
Agro Industries (fresh produce, meat, poultry, eggs, fish and honey), the Ministry of Public Works 
(satellite dishes and related equipment);  the Mini stry of Health (medicinal drugs);  and the 
Commissioner of Police (firearms and ammunitions).   Applications are approved by the permanent 
secretary, Department of Industry and Commerce, Ministry of Finance and the Economy.  
35. For goods such as refrigerators, motor vehicles,  air conditioning units and other equipment 
which can operate using Ozone Depl eting Substances (ODS), a Refrigerant Form must be completed 
in addition to the Import License Form.  These are obtained from the Dept. of Industry and 
Commerce, Ministry of Finance and the Economy.  Th is is required in order to meet Antigua and 
Barbuda’s obligation to the Montreal Protocol fo r the complete phasing out of the use of ODS by 
2010. 
36. Approved licenses are valid for one month and are not renewable.  However, new 
applications may be made. 
37. Licenses for five agricultural products are regul ated on a seasonal basis, depending on supply 
(sufficient to satisfy domestic needs).  Regulatio ns are monitored by the Dept. of Industry and 
Commerce in consultation with the Ce ntral Marketing Corporation (CMC). 
38. For commercial shipments of fruits, vegetables, plants, flowers, meat and fish, the importer 
must secure a valid import permit. 
Export Measures 
39. Antigua and Barbuda applies a charge of EC$0.10  per lb for the lobster and EC$0.05 per lb 
for the fish it exports.  These represent the only export tax levied. 
40. While there are no limitations to exports, sh ipment documents are checked and logged by 
customs officials at the port of exit. 
State Trading 
41. The Central Marketing Corporation (CMC) is a Government owned statutory body.  In 
addition to limited purchases from local farmers, the CMC is one of the importers of vegetables such 
as broccoli, carrots and tomatoes and is a primary im porter of rice, sugar and eggs.  CMC is also the 
major importer of agricultural inputs such as seeds,  fertilisers, chemicals (pesticides, herbicides), 
irrigation products, shade cloths, and spray pumps.  The institution is not obligated to purchase 
produce brought in by farmers and does not subsidise agriculture in any form. WT/TPR/G/190/ATG Trade Policy Review 
Page 12 
 
 
 42. CMC is consulted by the Department of Indus try and Commerce, on the issuance of licenses 
for certain agricultural commodities. 
Information Communications Technology 43. Antigua and Barbuda seeks to develop a vibrant IC T industry in an effort to foster economic 
growth and increase employment.  It is recognised  that availability and affordability of modern 
telecommunications infrastructure will aid in the development and expansion of local businesses, 
particularly SMEs.
14 
Safeguards 44. During the period under Review, Antigua a nd Barbuda did not impose any safeguard 
measure.  No safeguard legislation has been en acted and no authority has been established to 
undertake investigations in this regard.  Under certain stipulated conditions, the CARICOM Treaty 
permits the use of safeguard measures by the le ss developed countries, including Antigua and 
Barbuda.
15  However, Antigua and Barbuda has not availed itself of these provisions nor of the 
safeguard provisions in the WTO Agreement on Agriculture and the Agreement on Textiles and 
Clothing. 
Anti-dumping and Countervailing Measures 
45. Antigua and Barbuda has not imposed any anti- dumping or countervailing measure and there 
is no body appointed to execute anti-dumping or countervailing laws.  The WTO Committee on 
Subsidies and Countervailing Measu res has been notified that the country maintains no measures 
requiring notification.  The laws have not yet been  amended to reflect agreements reached in the 
Uruguay Round.  A model CARICOM anti-dumping law is being considered. 
Competition Policy 46. Chapter VIII of the CARICOM Treaty provides for the enactment of harmonized competition 
policy legislation in CARICOM members.  CA RICOM has produced model competition law and a 
proposal that the OECS countries establish a sub-regi onal competition authority.  Once it enters into 
force, it is expected that Antigua and Barbuda will create a national competition authority to deal with 
domestic competition issues, while the CARICOM au thority will deal with issues at the regional 
level. 
Price Controls 47. Controls are maintained on the prices of certa in essential items;  the mark-up percentage is 
fixed and not the price (generally 10% for wholesal e and 15% or 20% for retail).  There are fixed 
prices for bread and petroleum products. 
                                                     
 
14 The National ICT Policy, Development, strategic planning and e governance at:  www.antigua. 
gov.ag . 
15 Treaty of Chaguaramas, Chapter 7 articles 150, Safeguard Measures and 164, Promotion of 
Industrial Development    Antigua and Barbuda WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
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 Transparency measures 
48. The Government has pledged to maintain transp arency and good governance.  In this regard, 
four Acts of parliament introduced in 2005 ar e the initial components of the Charter for Good 
Governance.  Consistent with Government policy, Laws relating to trade in Antigua and Barbuda may 
be viewed online. 
2. SECTORAL DEVELOPMENT 
Services 
49. In Antigua and Barbuda, over the past two decad es, the services sector has continued to grow 
and create more employment than manufacturing and agriculture. 
Tourism  
50. Tourism is one of the key revenue earning sectors for Antigua and Barbuda and one of the 
most important areas driving foreign direct invest ment in the country.  The Ministry of Tourism 
estimates that the sector accounts for some 28 per cen t of overall employment in the economy, 48 per 
cent of export earnings and 51 per cent of to tal investments in Antigua and Barbuda. 
51. Currently, with the assistance of the Commonw ealth secretariat, the Government is 
constructing the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Ma ster Plan which will provide a new vision and 
strategy, involving a partnership between all stakeholders – public and private. 
52. Taking advantage of the rapidly changing t echnological environment, Antigua and Barbuda 
promotes the country through ‘Digimail’, which u tilizes e-mail to deliver comprehensive information 
on the destination to a wide range of  industry partners and consumers. 
53. In 2005, total visitor arrivals (both stay over and cruise ship visitors) to Antigua and Barbuda 
totalled 744,803, representing a strong  recovery from the fall in visito r arrivals experienced in 2001 
and 2002, but down from 808,148 in 2004.16  Of these, 260,530 were stay over visitors, mainly from 
the United States and United Kingdom and arrivals from both of these key markets have risen since 
2001.17  The number of cruise ship visitors was 466,85 1 in 2005.  According to the ECCB, the decline 
in visitor arrivals witnessed in 2005, both for stay ov er and cruise passengers, can be partly attributed 
to the closure of one hotel and the reduction in operations of another, as well as the reallocation of 
ships by one cruise line to the Pacific.18 
54. The Government has developed facilities for cruise ships such as access to duty free shopping 
and entertainment.  In 2003, at a cost of appr oximately US$22 million, a Cruise Ship Complex was 
erected at the St. John’s Harbour and an additional pier was created to facilitate the docking of four 
mega ships.  
55. The Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute (ABHTI) governed by the Antigua 
and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute Act of  2006 was created to satisfy the human resource 
                                                      
16 In 2002, total visitor arrivals were 510,326;  and 609,718 in 2003. 
17 Government of Antigua and Barbuda online information.  Viewed at:  http://www.ab.gov.ag/gov 
_v2/government/statsandreports/statsandr eports2005/visitor_arrivals1998_2004.pdf. 
18 ECCB online information.  Viewed at:  http ://www.eccb-centralbank.o rg/PDF/AEFR%202005%20-
%20Final%20Document.pdf. WT/TPR/G/190/ATG Trade Policy Review 
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 needs of the sector and foster efficiency and produc tivity  Currently, the Institute offers Certificate 
and Diploma courses.  In September 2006, the Institute in partnership with the University of the West 
Indies commenced a Degree Programme in Tourism Management. 
56. Legislation governing the provision of services a nd investment in the tourism sector includes 
the Hotels Aid Act CAP 204 of 1952, the Income Tax Act CAP 212 of 1957, the Income Tax 
Amendment Act, No. 4 of 2003.  The recently formed Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority (ABIA) gives priority to the area of tourism devel opment.  Investors’ applications for incentives and 
concessions are now processed through the ABIA. 
57. As part of an initiative aimed to diversifying th e tourism product, the Ministry of Tourism has 
re-organized the Sports Tourism Allia nce with a view to positioning the country in sports tourism.  An 
Events Department in the Ministry is responsible for handling tourism related events associated with 
sports tourism. 
International Financial Services
 
58. In 1982, Antigua and Barbuda’s internationa l financial services sector began with the 
enactment of the IBC Act and the sector grew signi ficantly until the 1990s.  During this period, the 
Government made every effort to develop a str ong regulatory framework.  However in 1999, the 
United Kingdom and the United States issued advisories against the jurisdiction.  In an effort to 
position the country as a premiere financial services centre, a major restructuring of the regulatory 
framework was undertaken, which included the estab lishment of the Financial Services Regulatory 
Commission (FSRC) as the single regulatory and supervisory body. 
59. The FSRC is responsible for the oversight of In ternational Business Corporations, and it is the 
Government’s intention to constitute the FSRC as the regulator for all financial institutions both 
domestic and international. 
60. Since 2001, evaluations by the FATF, IMF and CF.ATF have indicated that Antigua and 
Barbuda has made significant improvements in regulating the Financial Services sector. 
61. At the same time, to expand the sector, the jurisdiction is preparing to increase the number of 
products offered by International Financial Institutions particularly  foundations, and limited liability 
corporations. 
62. The Government has identified this sector for economic diversification and job creation in the 
areas of banking, trust, insurance, internet gami ng, international business corporations, foundations 
and limited liability corporations. 
63. Expansion of the list of products to be offered by institutions in the jurisdiction along with 
establishment of an electronic registry at the FS RC for International Business Corporations will no 
doubt increase the number of IBCs registered in the jurisdiction and go a long way in meeting challenges faced by the sector, includi ng increasing global competition.  
Interactive Gaming and Wagering 
64. Internet gaming companies are significant contri butors to Antigua and Barbuda’s economy in 
terms of GDP and employment.  Antigua and Barbud a has enacted a considerable body of regulations 
that represent a comprehensive approach to the supervision of the remote gaming sector.  The Antigua and Barbuda WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
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 oversight of all aspects of remote gaming is the r esponsibility of the Directorate of Gaming, which is 
a division of the FSRC. 
65. Historically, the largest market for remote  gaming services provided from Antigua and 
Barbuda has been the United States.  However, the Un ited States has imposed tr ade restrictions to the 
provision of this service.  In 2003, Antigua and Ba rbuda initiated proceedings at the WTO against the 
United States.  This action has proved expensiv e and time consuming for Antigua and Barbuda. 
66. The DSB ruled that the United States is in vi olation of the General Agreement on Trade in 
Services (GATS).  However, the Unites States has not complied with this ruling.  Instead, the 
United States has announced its intention to withdraw  its commitment in internet gaming.  This seems 
to challenge the global trade system and determinat ions by the WTO.  Antigua and Barbuda has the 
right to compensation under Article XXI of the GATS.  However it has always been Antigua and 
Barbuda’s objective to engage the United States in  a negotiated settlement that allows the continued 
provision of gaming services to consumers in the United States on a mutually acceptable basis. 
67. In view of trade barriers imposed by the Un ited States, prospects for expanding the gaming 
sector are mixed.  There is likely to be a protracted struggle for an acceptable settlement of the dispute 
at the WTO.  However, in the meanwhile, Antigua  and Barbuda has submitted an application to the 
British Government for permission to allow licensees  from Antigua and Barbuda to advertise in the 
United Kingdom.  A decision is expected by September 2007.  
Professional Services  
68. The Draft Professionals Bill which is being c onsidered by Parliament seeks to govern 
licensing, make regulations and determine the qua lifications of all professions in Antigua and 
Barbuda. 
69. At present, professional services are regulated by the respective professional associations and 
the relevant laws19;  of the 20 professional services in Antigua and Barbuda, one professional service 
is not regulated by law:  contractual services.  Non-nationals may become members of these associations, although there may be additional requi rements such as residency and work permits 
which are governed by the labour laws of Anti gua and Barbuda.  Academic degrees and professional 
qualifications awarded by foreign institutions must  be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs.  To date, none of the Professional Service As sociations have established reciprocal or mutual 
recognition arrangements with foreign associations. 
Legal Services 
70. The Legal Profession Act, No. 2 of 2007 gove rns the legal profession with regards to 
qualification, enrolment, and discipline of its member s.  Under this Act, only members holding a valid 
practising certificate are considered members of the Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association and can 
function as attorneys at law in Antigua and Barbuda.  
Accountancy Services 
71. Private and public accountancy are regulated by the same professional body under the 
Agreement Establishing the Institute  of Chartered Accountants of the Eastern Caribbean (ICAEC);  in 
                                                     
 
19 www.antigua.gov.ag. WT/TPR/G/190/ATG Trade Policy Review 
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 ratifying the ICAEC Agreement, Antigua and Ba rbuda created the ICAEC Antigua and Barbuda 
branch which is responsible for the day to day regulation of the accountancy profession 
72. The ICAEC agreement provides qualification a nd performance requirements and there is no 
discrimination on the basis of qualifications.  The ag reement restricts membership in the Institute and 
the right to engage in public and private practice to  citizens and residents of OECS member states that 
have signed and ratified the agreement.  However,  the ICAEC is in the process of obtaining a legal 
review on residency requireme nts for foreign accountants. 
73. The ICAEC is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of the Caribbean (ICAC) 
and discussions have occurred at the ICAC level regarding mutual recognition agreements amongst 
member institutes in the Cari bbean Community (CARICOM). 
Architectural Services 74. Architectural services are regulated by the Arch itects Registration Act, CAP 34 of 1986;  this 
Act provides for the registration and performance re quirements of architects, and makes provision for 
the establishment of the Architects Registration Board.   In addition the Antigua and Barbuda Institute 
of Architects (ABIA) is the association of regist ered architects and persons of allied professions.  
75. Registration with the Architects Registration Board is a requirement for all architectural 
service providers, whether local or foreign to provide architectural services in Antigua and Barbuda.  One requirement for registration by the Architects Registration Board is three years experience under 
the supervision of a registered architect in Antigua and Barbuda. 
76. Qualifications of architects, both local and fo reign are handled by the Architects Registration 
Board in accordance with the Architects Registration Act. 
77. The ABIA is a member of ACSAC the Association of Commonwealth Societies of Architects 
in the Caribbean, the regional body for architects in the Anglophone Caribbean.  The various registration acts in the Anglophone Caribbean are similar in nature and scope.  The Architects 
Registration Act provides guidance on establishing  mutual recognition agreements;  reciprocal 
arrangements must exist between th e Engineers’ Registration Board of  Antigua and Barbuda and that 
of the country seeking recognition. 
Engineering Services 78. In Antigua and Barbuda, engineering services are regulated by the Engineers Registration 
Act, CAP 153 of 1987 and The Engineers (Registr ation) Amendment Act, No. 18 of 1993.  The 
Engineers Registration Act of 1987 covers the re gistration and performance requirements of both 
public and private engineers and makes provision fo r the establishment of the Government-appointed 
Engineers’ Registration Board.  In addition th ere exists the Antigua and Barbuda Engineers 
Association. 
79. Registration by the Engineers’ Registration Board is a requirement
20 for local and foreign 
engineers to provide engineering services in Anti gua and Barbuda.  One of the requirements for 
registration is four years experience;  at least one  of which must be acquired in Antigua and Barbuda, 
or under the supervision of an engineer register ed in Antigua and Barbuda.  Foreign engineering 
consulting specialists must be employed by an Antiguan for a period of time. 
                                                      
20 Engineers Registration Act CAP. 153 of 1987 as amended, www.ab.gov.ag. Antigua and Barbuda WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
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 80. Qualifications of engineers, both local and fo reign are handled by the Engineers’ Registration 
Board. 
81. The Engineers’ Registration Act provides guidance for establishing mutual recognition 
agreements;  reciprocal arrangements must exis t between the Engineers’ Registration Board of 
Antigua and Barbuda and that of th e other country(s) seeking recognition. 
Contractual Services 82. There is no domestic legislation that regulates the provision of contractual services.  The 
association which deals with contractual servic es is the Antigua and Barbuda Contractors’ 
Association.  A draft Contractors Registration B ill is currently being prepared ensuring compliance 
with our commitments under the GATS, CSME and the OECS. 
83. At present, foreign contractors can provide  services in Antigua and Barbuda without 
membership in the Contractors’ Association.  However, it is expected that under the law being 
drafted, the Antigua and Barbuda Contractors’ Association will be res ponsible for determining 
qualifications and performance requirements of  all contractors in Antigua and Barbuda. 
Medical and Dental Services 
84. Medical practitioners can only practise in Antigua and Barbuda if they are registered by both 
the Medical Board and the Medical Registrar.
21  In addition, the Antigua and Barbuda Medical 
Association operates as a trade union for all medical practitioners. 
85. Foreign medical practitioners must demonstr ate that their qualifications guarantee the 
possession of the requisite knowledge and skill for the efficient practice of their profession. 
86. The Government recruits foreign physicians w ho must fulfil all the registration requirements 
of the Medical Board, and the Medical Association,  They are exempt from requirements of residency 
but are required to hold a valid work permit. 
87. Dentists must be registered under the Medical  Act, CAP 268 of 1938.  In addition, foreign 
dentists must be able to demonstrate that the qualification obtained is sufficient to guarantee the 
possession of the requisite knowledge and skill fo r the efficient practice of dentistry. 
88. There is no Association which would regulate performance requirements of dentists in 
Antigua and Barbuda. 
89. Other professions which are regulated by law are Nurses, Midwives, Pharmacist and Land 
Surveyors.22 
Telecommunications  
90. Since 2001, the Telecommunications landscape in Antigua and Barbuda has seen the addition 
of new players in terms of data services.  However, the number of licensees in mobile services has 
                                                      
21 The Medical Act, CAP 269 of 1938, www.ab.gov.ag. 
22 The Pharmacy Act 1995 No. 11 of 1995, Nurses Registration Cap. 296 of the Laws of Antigua and 
Barbuda, Midwifery Act Cap. 281 of the Laws of Antigua and Barbuda;  Land Surveyors Act Cap. 239. WT/TPR/G/190/ATG Trade Policy Review 
Page 18 
 
 
 remained the same i.e. three play ers.  Antigua and Barbuda has also been the first in the region to 
licence the WiMax band of the spectrum. 
91. In the last 12 months, concrete changes ha ve been made to the legal and regulatory 
framework that governs the Telecommunications Sect or.  The Government has negotiated with the 
incumbent international provider of service, Cable and Wireless (C&W) to terminate their exclusive 
licence earlier than the contracted 2012 – new non-ex clusive licences will be issued to C&W.  There 
are already several investors showing inte rest in obtaining international licences.  
92. In addition, to negotiations with C& W the Government has drafted a new 
Telecommunications Bill that is currently being debated in Parliament.  It is expected that this Bill 
will become an Act by September of 2007.  Conc urrently, secondary legisla tion (regulations) are due 
for implementation at about the same time includi ng but not limited to regulations on interconnection 
and licensing. 
93. The new Bill provides for creation of a new regulatory body that will govern the new 
paradigm of a liberalized sector.  This semi-autonomous body will be solely responsible for the determination of rates, administration of the spectrum, etc. but will not grant licences. 
Fisheries 
94. Although the fisheries sector contributes about 2% to the country’s GDP, Antigua and 
Barbuda considers the fisheries sector to be of importance.  The sector provides important supplement income to the rural poor, and acts as a cushion in times of economic dislocation in Antigua.  Further, 
this sector is a significant source of income to Barbuda, with many families having one or more 
persons employed in the sector. 
95. Antigua and Barbuda’s intention is that the new rules being crafted on fisheries subsidies 
should not hinder the development of the small scale fisheries sectors in sma ll and vulnerable coastal 
states. 
Manufacturing 
96. The contribution of Manufacturing to GDP has been historically small, at slightly over 2 per 
cent.  Locally manufactured products are mainly fo r sale in the domestic market;  garments, agro-
processed goods, bakery products, handicraft items, so ft drinks, beer, malt, rum and furniture.  In 
addition to local sales, paint, windows, doors a nd pepper sauce are exported.  Most manufacturing 
businesses are micro enterprises  
97. There has been a steady and significant declin e in the relative value of non-reciprocal 
preferences with Antigua and Barbuda’s  main trading partners.  Moreover, Antigua and Barbuda has 
not been in a position to benefit in any signifi cant way from these arrangements because of supply 
constraints.  A narrow resource base necessitating the importation of a high percentage of raw materials and high prices for transportation result in  excessive operation costs.  The smallness of the 
domestic market means local manufacturers must depe nd heavily on exports if they are to harness 
economies of scale and scope.  However, small size makes it difficult to achieve the range of skills 
and diversity to be competitive in export markets.  Moreover, in general these enterprises do not 
possess the capacity to navigate the complex ities of international trade arrangements. Antigua and Barbuda WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
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 3. I NSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK 
98. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Interna tional Trade is responsible for trade policy 
formulation and implementation in consultation with  a number of departments of the Ministry of 
Finance, including the Customs and Excise Division, the Budget Office, the Economic Policy and 
Planning Unit, Department of Industry and Commerce and a number of related agencies, including the 
Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority and the Bur eau of Standards.  In addition, the Ministry of 
Agriculture, Lands and Fisheries, the Ministry of Jus tice and Legal Affairs, and the Office of Patents, 
Copyrights and Intellectual Property, all play a part  in influencing trade policy.  A working group 
made up of stakeholders from the main Ministries h as also been formed to deal with trade issues. 
4. TRADING ARRANGEMENTS Regional Integration 
OECS Economic Union
 
99. Antigua and Barbuda is working with other OECS Member States to create a single economic 
space to facilitate the free movement of people, goods, services and capital in an effort to stimulate economic diversification and growth, greater e xport competitiveness, more employment and human 
resource development.  Provisions of the Economic Union are expected to include: 
(a) The free circulation of goods and trade in services within the OECS (b) Free movement of labour (c) Free movement of capital (via support of th e money and capital market programme of the 
 Eastern Caribbean Central Bank) 
(d) A regional Assembly of Parliamentarians 
(e) A common external tariff CSME
 
100. A CSME Unit has been estab1ishcd within the Industry and Commerce Division of the 
Ministry of Finance and the Economy to consult with and provide assistance to all stakeholders on the 
mechanisms embedded within the Treaty and to  advise pub1ic sector entities on their obligations 
under the Revised Treaty. 
Treaty Enactments The following have been enacted into Antigua and Barbuda law: (a) The Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas establishing the Caribbean Community including the 
CARICOM Single Market and Economy (The Ca ribbean Community Act 2004 No. 9 of 2004). 
(b) The Caribbean Court of Justice, in its original  jurisdiction, was enacted into Domestic Law 
(The Caribbean Court of Justice Act No. 10 of 2004 and "The Caribbean Court of Justice 
(Amendment) Act No. 10 of 2005). WT/TPR/G/190/ATG Trade Policy Review 
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 The following are presently being processed: 
(a) The Accreditation Act 2006 No. 4 of 2006. 
(b) The Caribbean Community (Movement of Fact ors) Act No. 3 of 2006 which  addresses the 
Right of Establishment, the Right to Provide a Se rvice, the Right to Move Capital and Safeguard 
Measures and amends discriminatory provisions in existing Acts. 
(c) Establishment of administrative arrangements  for the Caribbean Community Skills National 
Act No. 3 of 1997 which facilitates the movement of skilled nationals as prescribed by Articles 45 and 
46 of the Treaty. 
101. Other initiatives include national consultations to develop a country position on Contingent 
Rights and the drafting of competition legislation.  R estrictions relating to owne rship of property were 
not removed;  a position held by all OECS countri es and application of the Environment Protection 
Levy was cleared by the 19th Counsel of Tr ade and Economic Development (COTED) as non-
discriminatory.  Antigua and Barbuda commenced u se of the CARICOM Passport in January of 2006. 
102. Moving forward, Antigua and Barbuda implemen ted the fourth phase of the CET in 2001 and 
implementation of the revised structure of the CET based on 2007 HS is due for implementation 
during the last quarter of 2007. 
103. It is expected that the Single Economy will be  implemented in two phases.  The target for 
implementation of phase one is 2008/2009.  The main elements of this phase includes the extension of 
the categories of free movement of labour and stream lining of existing procedures, contingent rights;  
and the establishment and commencement of operations  of the Regional Development Fund.  All of 
which will be outlined in the regiona l development vision and strategy.  
Multilateral 
WTO - Doha Round 
104. Antigua and Barbuda, like many other developi ng countries, is eager to see progress in the 
advancement of the Doha Round of negotia tions and the Doha Development Agenda. 
105. Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to the multilateral process and has been more 
involved in its participation since 2001.  One factor  for this increased participation has been the 
launch of the joint OECS Technical Mission in Ge neva that has given much valuable support in 
engaging WTO matters. 
106. There are still some significant challenges th at occur in implementing WTO obligations, 
especially as it relates to the creation of new institu tions.  Given the small si ze of the economy and the 
population, there may not be enough critical mass to make it practical to create all the various 
recommended structures in order to fulfil WTO obligations. 
107. In this light, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed the Aid for Trade initiative coming out of the 
Hong Kong Ministerial. Antigua and Barbuda WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
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 Preferential trading arrangements 
CARICOM Bilateral Trade Arrangements  
108. As a Member of the Caribbean Community (C ARICOM), Antigua and Barbuda is party to 
five special trading arrangements that have been  negotiated by the CARICOM as a bloc with third 
parties.  These are the: 
• Agreement on Trade, Economic and Techni cal Cooperation between CARICOM and  
Venezuela; 
• Agreement on Trade, Economic and Tec hnical Cooperation between CARICOM and 
Colombia; 
• CARICOM - Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement; 
• Partial Scope Agreement between the Republic of Cuba and the Caribbean Community;  and 
• CARICOM - Costa Rica Free Trade Agreement. 
CARIBCAN  
109. CARIBCAN which came into effect in June of 1986, is a unilateral preferential scheme 
between Canada and several Caribbean  states including Antigua and Barbuda. 
110. The objectives of CARIBCAN are to enhance Commonwealth Caribbean trade and export 
earnings, improve the trade and economic devel opment prospects of the region, promote new 
investment opportunities, and encourage enhan ced economic integration and co-operation. 
111. The main feature of CARIBCAN is duty-free acces s to the Canadian market for most goods 
originating in Antigua and Barbuda.  Duty-free access,  however, does not apply to textiles, clothing, 
footwear, luggage, handbags, methanol, lubricating oil and leather garments. 
Cotonou/EPA  
112. Antigua and Barbuda is a party to the Cot onou Partnership Agreement between members of 
the European Union, and the African, Caribbean, a nd Pacific States signed in Cotonou on 23 June 
2000, usually referred to the Cotonou Agreement. 
113. The overriding goals of the Agreement are to reduce poverty and promote sustainable 
development and ‘the integration of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries into the 
global economy’ which involves enhancing production, supply and trading capacity as well as 
increasing ACP capacity to attract investment, to formulate strong trade and investment policies, and to handle all issues related to trade.  Under Co tonou, Antigua and Barbuda has non-reciprocal access 
to the EU market for substantially all industrial goods and for a wide range of agricultural products 
meeting the rules of origin criteria. 
114. Under the Cotonou Agreement, a reciprocal free trade agreement is be ing negotiated between 
the EC and the CARIFORUM Region (of which An tigua and Barbuda is a part) to replace the 
previous preferential trade regime.  This new Econom ic Partnership Agreement is to be compatible 
with WTO rules, development-oriented and build upon CARIFORUM regional integration initiatives.  WT/TPR/G/190/ATG Trade Policy Review 
Page 22 
 
 
 The new regime is also expected to incorporate and improve on the Cotonou instruments regarding 
access to the EU market.  
CBI 
115. The Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) is the coll ective name given to the preferential trade 
arrangements granted by the United States to the Caribbean Region, and is a vital element of 
economic relations betwee n CARICOM Member States and the United States.  Initially launched in 
1983 through the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery  Act (CBERA), and substantially expanded in 
2000 through the U.S.-Caribbean Basin Trade Partne rship Act (CBTPA), the CBI currently provides 
the beneficiary countries with duty-free access to the U.S. market for most goods (except textiles and 
clothing, footwear, leather goods, canned tuna, and petroleum and petroleum products).  Antigua and 
Barbuda does not receive preferences under the CBTPA, but continues to enjoy access under the 
CBERA. 
Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) 116. Antigua and Barbuda’s products are eligible for GSP treatment for a number of countries 
including, Australia, Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech  Republic, the European Union, Hungary, Japan, 
New Zealand, Norway, the Russian Federa tion, the Slovak Republic, and Switzerland. 
5. TRADE DEVELOPMENT NEEDS ASSESSMENT 
Vulnerabilities 
117. According to internationally accepted standard s, Antigua and Barbuda’s economy achieves a 
high rating – annual per capita GDP of approxima tely US$10,000 and Human Development Index 
ranking of 59 for 2006 which places the country in the high development category.  However, the 
Antigua and Barbuda Country Poverty Assessment  2005/2006 estimates poverty at 18 per cent which 
indicates a need for specific interventio ns and resources for poverty reduction. 
118. In addition, the economy is highly dependent on government activity and in recent years, 
Antigua and Barbuda has become one of the most i ndebted nations in the world.  At the same time, 
the Government accounts for about 40 per cent of employment and more than half of government 
revenues go toward payment of salaries and wages. 
119. As a small, open, developing country with a high trade to GDP ratio, and very small 
percentage of world trade, there are vulnerabiliti es to exogenous shocks.  The country’s dependence 
on Tourism makes the economy particularly vulnera ble to events in the country’s main source 
markets such as the terrorist attacks in Septem ber 2001 and more recently, changes in Government 
passport policy which significantly impact tourist arrival figures from the United States, our main 
source market.  
120. Furthermore, according to the Centre for R esearch on Epidemiology Disasters, Antigua and 
Barbuda is one of the countries in the world most  highly exposed to natural disasters.  From 1970 
through 2002, it ranked among the top four countries  by land area and population (CRED EM-DAT).  
During the 1990s the country suffered hits from four  major hurricanes causing  extensive damage to 
infrastructure and property. Antigua and Barbuda WT/TPR/G/190/ATG 
 Page 23 
 
 
 Challenges 
121. Antigua and Barbuda is presently engaged in si multaneous negotiations at the multilateral, 
hemispheric, regional and bilate ral levels.  These negotiations ar e being conducted as part of an 
increasingly complex trade agenda that goes beyond  the traditional area of border measures such as 
tariffs and non-tariff barriers, to include a growin g number of issues, including trade in services, 
investment, trade-related intellectual propert y rights, government procurement, labour and 
environmental issues and outcomes from these ne gotiations can profoundly affect the economy.  
There are serious problems of human and technical  capacity to cover these complex negotiations, 
achieve an effective policy synthesis across sector s and between various sets of negotiations and 
effect and monitor implementation. 
122. It is a major challenge for the government, alr eady constrained by high debt and a tight fiscal 
position to appropriate the necessary funds needed to implement their trade policy commitments in 
particular to implement the WTO customs valuati on, SPS and TRIPS agreements.  Even with longer 
transition periods to implement the various agreem ents mentioned above we are still unable to meet 
these deadlines due to a lack of the required resources. 
123. An important component of the adjustment co st faced by the country consequent upon trade 
liberalization is the loss of government revenue.  Taxes on imports accounted for approximately fifty-
six per cent of recurrent government  revenue in 2006.  Tariffs at the Ports are easy to administer and 
less costly for the government. 
124. Firms operating in Antigua and Barbuda are le ss competitive as a result of lack of economies 
of scale, high production cost, lack of efficiency an d limited use of technology.  Trade liberalization 
will result in increased competition from bigger and more technologically advanced foreign firms, 
which can negatively affect the sales of domestic fi rms.  Given the fact that government’s use of 
import substitution policies to protect these firms are now limited, openness can lead to their demise. 
125. Manufacturing activities continue to be cha llenged by an increasingly competitive market 
environment.  Even though tariffs in the develope d countries on average are low, tariff peaks, tariff 
escalations and non-tariff barriers such as TBT and SPS measures affect manufactured exports in to 
developed markets.  Erosion of trade preferences is  placing the country’s producers at a disadvantage. 
126. Also, in the area of services where the country has some competitive advantage, there are a 
number of restrictions in the developed countries which preclude service providers from providing 
services.  Some of the impediments that exist are visa, residency requirements, discriminatory taxes 
and requirement that service providers establish in-state offices. 
Statistics  
127. The Statistical Data Base in Antigua and Barbuda  is very weak, severely hampering analysis 
of economic performance and development so as to  inform government policy decisions.  Statistics 
are not published by the National Statistics Division on a regular and comprehensive basis.  Figures 
must be sought from the Statistics Division, the relevant government Ministry or agency.  Collecting 
data is therefore difficult and time-consuming. 
128. Trade negotiations are made more difficult by the absence of reliable statistical information 
on trade flows.  For example, there is little reliabl e statistical information on which to base impact 
assessment of offers for the current EPA negotiations. WT/TPR/G/190/ATG Trade Policy Review 
Page 24 
 
 
 129. Computerization of statistics at the Customs Department has started the process of 
improvement of recording systems for more timely a nd efficient collection and collation of trade data.  
In addition, officials are now in the process of making forms available on line for electronic 
submission of documents.  However, statistical system s and data analysis need  to be strengthened and 
the network of dissemination improved. 
Trade Assistance Required 
130. Antigua and Barbuda is of the opinion that trad e should be a tool for promoting sustainable 
growth, development, and e quitable poverty reduction.  In this rega rd, assistance is urgently needed in 
at least four areas: 
(a) Policy support  for the mainstreaming of trade into domestic policies such that export in 
competitive areas can be enhanced;  formulati ng and implementing trade policy based on sound 
analysis supported by strong data collection and management systems, developing a long-term growth 
plan with appropriate sequencing,  marketing and implementing tax re form measures in a way that is 
not deleterious to the real disposable income of the citizens and does not create disincentives to invest. 
(b) Infrastructural support  including assistance for continued representation and participation in 
regional trade bodies, the WTO and UN trade-rela ted bodies, international standards making bodies 
and international financial institutions;  technical  and/or financial assistance in research and  
implementation of energy saving policies and f acilities, support for a regional (CARICOM) body for 
food and plant health standards (SPS);  disaster relief and mitigation support. 
(c) Trade Adjustment support  aimed at cushioning the effects of shocks from trade liberalisation 
as well as providing mechanisms for gradual adjust ment to a full economic growth path including 
training of stakeholders on changes in SPS and TBT requirements that could affect trade and reorienting land use to prevent environmental degradation. 
(d) Supply side support
, including financial and technical assi stance to firms and small industries 
to build the capacity to become globally competitiv e;  assistance to set up programmes that increase 
investment in research, education, and worker training, creating mechanisms to maximise the benefits 
of trade agreements, such that clear linkages could be found for SMEs in the export sector.  The aim is 
to help entrepreneurs to export their go ods and services to international markets. 
__________